I'm looking for something that is attractive, durable (future rental property) and not going to break the budget.

Looking for recommendations to the most durable brand, style, type of carpet and where I can get it cheaply?

A nice option might be to do that with no laminate backsplash (straight top back to the wall) and use and inexpensive tile backsplash to dress things up and make it durable.

(seem to be more durable than hardwood and get the height closer to the kitchen tile)10.

I will never put laminate in again as the perceived value of granite is higher, and the durability factor is incredible.

@Idan Narotzki Careful screening, strong lease (and strong enforcement of it), diligent move-in/move out checklist (so they know you’re paying attention), large security deposit (I ask for double 1 month rent amount which in my area means $3-5k), avoid Class C-/D, find a good collections agency that will work on contingency basis, make your units as tenant-proof as possible with inexpensive yet durable materials, hold plenty in reserve funds, set proper expectations, communicate well but firmly and treat tenants fairly and professionally, and be willing to clean up a mess and fix things occasionally rather than pay a company thousands to do it for you.

In cheap, hard-use C/D class rentals like mine, I'm a big fan of 3/4 in. solid hardwood finished-in-place with 3 coats of oil-based poly for its durability and longevity, not its look after it gets beaten up over the years. 3/8 in. engineered will look great when you install it, but it won't hold up to decades of hard use and the kind of light spot-refinishing with a belt sander that I do.

A coat of paint can do wonders for changing the appearance.Remember when changing out cabinets and flooring, you want something durable and that will appeal to a lot of people. 

Yup....one cat destroyed, arguably, the most durable floor out there!

I typically suggested that my clients create an estate plan to establish the following:  A Pour Over Will  A Living Trust A Medical Power of Attorney A Durable Power of Attorney I would just talk with her and be open and honest about what you would like to do.